Today in our Homemaking Harmony series, we’re excited to share some expert advice from my dear friend Buffy Creekmore, owner and broker at 731 Village Realtors. Buffy has been guiding families to their perfect homes since 2005. Whether you’re right here in our community or joining us from afar, her tips are sure to help anyone looking to list their home shine.
As we dive into these helpful tips, let’s reflect on Proverbs 24:3-4: “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” This verse beautifully ties into the thoughtful process of selling your home, where every decision is a step towards blessing and new beginnings.
Where Do I Start to Sell My House?
You’ve probably spent years making improvements, creating the home you love living in, but you’re ready to move for whatever reason, got married, larger home, new job, new city, it’s time to get moving. The first step is to change your mindset.
Remember what it was like when you were looking and found your home? The aspects of it that drew you to this house? Location? Size? Layout? These are all the same criteria buyers are looking for today. We’re going to make a to-do list of ideas to spotlight the best of your home!
Declutter
By removing non-essential items and some family photos (not all you do still live there) used in your decor, buyers won’t be distracted; we want to create a spacious and inviting homey feel for buyers to envision their family there. If you have sentimental items attached to the house, such as light fixtures or window coverings, that you will be taking with you, you need to remove or replace them before photos are taken.
Thorough Cleaning
This can be done simultaneously with the decluttering; buyers will be looking through your home, including cabinets and closets, to make sure storage space is sufficient. It can seem like an overwhelming task; however, you may consider hiring it out for a one-time deep clean.
Painting
If your home is painted with personal colors to your taste and decor, especially children’s rooms, you may want to consider having it repainted to promote a more neutral and cleaner canvas for buyers to visualize the space.
Repairs
Look around your house at any repairs that you might be used to but would look like lack of maintenance to buyers: sticky or squeaky door, running toilet, leaky faucet, drywall repair, nonworking lightbulbs. Make sure appliances are in good condition and possibly have HVAC serviced.
Outside
First impressions. Your potential buyer may drive by or be pulling up for a showing. An updated mailbox with fresh new numbers, pressure washing, keeping grass cut and shrub beds trimmed, freshly painted front door, and a new welcome mat will go a long way to getting buyers attention.
A local Realtor will be able to guide you through your current local market and navigate the listing process including legal documents, listing price, offer negotiations through closing.
We hope Buffy’s insights inspire you and make the process of listing your home exciting and approachable. For those of you in our local area, Buffy is just a click away at 731 Village Realtors, ready to offer her expert advice and support. And for our friends further away, her guidance is equally invaluable.
Listing your home is about moving forward—creating spaces for new memories and possibilities. Let’s embrace this journey with wisdom, understanding, and a joyful heart!
About the Author
Meet Buffy Creekmore, a beacon of knowledge and friendliness in the real estate world. Since starting her journey as a realtor in 2005, Buffy has dedicated herself to helping individuals and families find their dream homes, navigating the complexities of real estate with ease and enthusiasm. If you’re considering listing your home, or just curious about your options, check out her website at 731 Village Realtors. Having known Buffy personally for years, I can wholeheartedly vouch for her integrity and expertise.